4.5*

I liked this book so much more than I thought I would! I usually don't read romance books but I thought this would be a good introduction since it had fantasy elements. I was pleasantly surprised.

Edwina was such a good FMC. She was very sassy and quirky and it was great seeing her spar with William. I laughed quite a few times reading this. I also loved all of the different fae creatures this world has.

This was such an adorable romcom and I will definitely be picking up book 2!

For a first cozy fantasy, that wasn't a big success, not gonna lie. The world is so blatantly copied from ACOTAR I'm wondering how an editor or publisher might have let that slide. The plot quickly got boring and the lack of chemistry between our two protagonists didn't help either. Don't get me started on the third act conflict bit, I thought it was just stupid and unnecessary, they could've just come up with a solution for the both of them like grown a*s adults. And some of the scenes were cringe as hell, I'm sorry but both of their works seemed very poorly written so it was hard to believe that either was so popular (then again Coho is popular so everything is possible I guess). It was entertaining but I skimmed the last 20% because I just wanted to get it over with.

1st person duel POV
Fantasy romance (fae with 2 forms, story set within fae world)
Historical feeling romance
1st in a series (2nd not yet available)
Rivals to lovers
Slow burn
Sexy consent
Spicy scenes
HEA
“I’ll ruin you for every man who comes after me” … “ruin me”

Edwina (FMC) is a romance author & William (MMC) is a poet with an acting background. They are travelling together stopping at various fae courts - along with 2 members of staff of publishers - on a book signing tour; rivals with only one of them due to win the 3-book contract with their publisher. Both have their respective reasons of needing to win, & end up drunkenly making a magic-binding bargain to amend the rules of how they can win the contract - from whoever sells the most, to whoever can take the most lovers during their tour!

A thoroughly enjoyable read. The initial world building & character development was intriguing. The slow burn felt necessary, rather than dragging as it can sometimes. After all the bartering & teasing, Will’s first “use me” had me clutching my pearls! The spice was well written, fairly spicy & thoughtful; I very much appreciated the sexy consent. The slight twists within the second half of the tale kept me completely hooked, & I read the last 3rd of this book in one sitting because I simply couldn’t put it down.

I will be recommending this book to everyone I know who also enjoys “smut & drivel” as William so graciously describes it, romantasty &/or historically themed romcoms, & to those who are looking for an introduction into.
Excited also to read the 2nd tale in this series when that is released, & in the meantime I plan to read Tessonja’s backlist - I was intrigued to anyway but then it was mentioned that some of the same characters from this book are featured through her works & it was an immediate 100% adding all to TBR right this second!

Thank you to NetGalley and Tessonja Odette for this ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.

💕 SMUT AND DRIVEL💕

A huge thank you to @tessonja and @netgalley for sending me the ARC of this phenomenal book, id seen such great reviews and was really hoping id get the opportunity to read and review it before it was published 🫶🏻

Imagine Divine Rivals, Half A Soul and Bridgerton had a baby!! That is exactly what this book is.

Its the perfect mix of fantasy and historical romance, with an easy to follow world and character that you can’t help but fall in love with 🫶🏻

You get work colleagues that HATE each other so much that their burning hatred turns into fiery passion ❤️‍🔥!!

You get a cozy, fantasy vibe, that feels like a warm fuzzy blanket!! ☕️

You get a sexy Fae man that is deep and layered , with secrets and scandals that follow him everywhere he goes!! 📚

And last but definitely not least… You get delicious spicy scenes in public places and secret messages hidden in books 🤫

Give me all that, and Im VERY happy girl 🫶🏻👏🏼

If these things are your jam too…. Then this book is definitely for you!!

this book absolutely hit the spot for a light, easy, low-stakes romcom!! it was so much fun – the characters had the best banter and such a gorgeous development from rivals to almost-friends to absolutely in love. i loved the soft fantasy, with fae with fascinating unseelie forms, and unique magic. for once, the mmc didn’t have lightning or killing powers of anything – my baby had the cutest, unexpected power!

and while the plotline did have the underlying ridiculous plot of a battle to see who’s better at seducing (and when both characters are fully obsessed with one another), i didn’t mind it at all, and had a lot of fun with the low-stakes but nonetheless exciting adventures. the characters were utterly loveable, and overall this was just pure fun, swoonworthy pleasure. thank you to the author, publisher, netgalley for the arc!

“You are beautiful. Your words are beautiful.”

4.5 stars! The best way I can describe this is if Emily Wilde was on a book tour instead of writing an encyclopedia...and had an intimacy bet/competition going with the MMC. It's cozy fantasy, but also romance.

This was delightful! A little slow to start, but so worth it.

Two writers on a book tour are competing to win an extended contract with their publishing house. He’s fae, she’s human. It’s so unserious, and I love that. They call each other Weenie (Edwina) and Willy (William) to get on each other’s nerves.

Its dual POV, workplace rivals to lovers, has a bet, and a date auction. I cannot wait for Daphne & Monty's book. I'll be checking out this author's backlist in the meantime!

Thank you to the author, publisher, and NetGalley for my advanced digital copy!

I was so pleasantly surprised by this book, the author has a striking and unique writing style that has the ability to really let the readers dive in her story with her fantastic world building and a fascinating ability to get straight to your heart with her words.

The read was smooth and easy going, the peace always on point with no unnecessary deviations from the main path, it was funny and full of banter, cozy and spicy all in the right amount.

The characters were not perfect as other books claim, they are as down to earth as they come making the whole experience even more exhilarating with no unreasonable and unrealistic expectations.

Edwina is the fiery FMC, a feisty romance author that has a surprising firm backbone, even tho she is a human and comes from an uptight background but she’s surprisingly open minded and witty. Her personality is the best this book has to offer, a firm believer in her ideals with the courage and determination to thrive in a men’s world. That same personality comes crashing fast and hard with the beautiful yet imperfect William the pompous poet, rival to her prestigious signing tour and seemingly the most obnoxious fae she’s ever met.
In a drunken haze, they begrudgingly agree to a bet that neither of them can win because their attraction to each other’s gets in the way binding them in a heart warming relationship.

Please do yourself a favor and pick this book up, you’ll devour it as I did, with no remorse and a big smile on your face.

Thanks to NetGalley and the author for the opportunity to read this ARC copy of the book that I cherished. I gave my unbiased opinion and thoughts in this review.
#ARivalryofHearts #NetGalley

4.5 stars from me. This book was so good! Totally fed the Bridgerton feeling I’ve been craving but was also very different. I loved both the mcs, and just fell in love with this world and the characters. I can’t wait for the second one! I will be forcing all my friends to read this and definitely recommend to anyone who loves regency type things but also fantasy. This was such a great combination of them!

Edwina, human is delayed on her seavoyage to a Fae island for her booktour, only to discover that they have filled her spot with an attractive Fae poet with whom she now has to share her book promo tour.
William seems arrogant and flirty and, considering there is only one contract with the publisher to be won at the end of the tour, scarily popular with the people who come to their signings.
So when they get drunk after their first signing, Edwina and William make a bet: the deal goes to the person who is the most successful at pulling.

So we have a road trip around a fairy island with different magical locations, rivalry and - of course - growing att action between the rivals, fae, and of course different backstories why they each need the contract and won't stop fighting for it.

Thank you NetGalley and Tessonja Odette for the opportunity to read this ARC.
I adore the Entangled with Fae series so I knew I was excited to read this! A Rivalry of Hearts is set in the same world, but focused on the competition between Edwina (a human author) and William (a fae poet). I would describe this as a cozy fantasy historical romance and I need more books in this genre! The banter is fantastic and the character development is well done. The spice to plot ratio is perfect, which Tessonja always does really well. I’m looking forward to more books in this series!

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

First of all I’d like to thank the publisher and net!galley for granting me a free e-arc in exchange for an honest review.

If you would like to enjoy this book as much as I did, it gets published June 12th.

✨it was a Novel of Smut and Drivel✨

I had a little bit of a hard time getting into the story. Due to some words I didn’t understand at first, English isn’t my first language. But once I was fully into it, I enjoyed it so much!

I had to get used to the old-English kind of way, Tessonja Odette wrote the number in her book, it was very similar to how we say them in Dutch/Flemish. Which made me a little confused, but nothing Mr. Google couldn’t solve.

I have to be honest, the way Bretton made me feel was not very pretty. Tessonja Odette didn’t write a whole lot about it but sentences like
“I’d undoubtedly be forced to marry, for women in Bretton are considered the property of their parents, brothers, or husbands well into adulthood.” made my hair stand up.

I really loved the character development of Will.
Whereas he starts off as an ultimate A-hole, he slowly falls for Edwina without realizing. (Oh my heart, you found my weakness Miss Tessonja)
He who closed his heart off, being afraid his love wouldn’t be enough to keep someone. Falling in love with “the weirdest woman ever met.”
A man who would sacrifice everything for those he loves.

Then we have our lovely Edwina, Ed, Weenie, Ms Danforth. How much misfortune can one have to get to one place?
But i got to be honest, her spirit, fire, stubbornness,… made me really love her character. A woman who wants to make it as an author, without accepting to be anything less than herself for the sake of sales. (F-you Bullard and Sons.)

Every character had a wonderful pacing during the book.

I loved Daffy, how she kinda learned to love her Seelie form.

Monty who had a soft spot for Daffy without knowing it, but also hurting her because not knowing.

Zane who pops up as Will’s best friend from college and then just hangs out/ travels along with the heartbeats tour.

Jolene who kinda went after Will but at the same time rooted for Edwina and Will.

My emotion went through the roof with this one.
And excuse me, I NEED to read the next book! What’s going to happen to Daffy and Monty?! HELLO?!

I really liked it because it took my mind off of the real world for a while and took me on a trip to Faerwyvae.

A little suggestion to add to the book or provide in some way. Is a dictionary, I had to look up quite a few words that I didn’t understand.
Such as a sprite and a sylph.

Not for me.
I am a big romantasy fan and I couldn’t wait to read this one as It had a lot of tropes that I love. But… nope, they were all poorly written. I did not love the characters (except for Edwina, untile the bet) and I did not enjoy how the two protagonists became lovers, their relationship and their feelings were just so fast and I was not invested in them. So sad!

THIS BOOK!!!!
I was talking to my friend few days ago about how I want to read something amazing that I don’t have to hesitate to give it 5 stars and then I picked up this book and it’s truly the easiest five stars I have given to a book. THIS BOOK IS FAE-TASTIC✨

Two rival writers.
One prestigious publishing contract.
A bargain of Hearts and Seduction.
A bargain with a fae(William Haywood)

This was a blast to read. What if I say it’s My best read of 2024😭👀 Is it enough to convince you guys?? I don’t think I have actually giggled this much reading a book before.A Historical rom com in fae world, rivals to lovers and steamy romance,the most perfect combination!!

The pining and banter is just chef’s kiss💋
Hateful banter and cute nicknaming to rile up each other😩This book held my heart from the very first page(when I read about all the courts and hierarchy system of faerwyvae) The side characters are amazing. I loved furry daphne and match maker Monty🫶🏻 and can’t wait for their book😭

Okay the Main characters are just so delightful, couldn’t get enough of them. William and Edwina had the most sizzling chemistry. They are witty,funny and hot. Edwina writes spicy romance books where as William writes poetry.They make fun of each other’s work(In a funny rivalry way) William haywood is just so swoon worthy🫠🫠 The things he says and does. I need a academic rival for myself now like William who wants me to USE HIM😭😭

Also there is suspense, of course William is hiding something👀 No man is perfect right?? But he is close to one!! He is just so irresistible🫣

It’s your next fluffy fae rom com✨
PLEASE PICK UP THIS BOOK ON 12th JUNE😭🫶🏻(I’m literally begging💀) but it is that good!!!!!

Remember how sometimes you discover an author and read just one book by them and now you literally want to read everything they have written till now😩yupp that’s @tessonja for me now🫶🏻🥺

This was such a sweet and fun fae rom com!! Plenty of spice, low stakes, and overall a fun read if you like fae and romance.

A Rivalry of Hearts by Tessonja Odette is a cheerful delight of fantasy and romance. It follows human Edwina and fae William, who are both authors, in a fun-filled romcom-esque story of rivalry, tension, longing and perhaps even love. The side characters were additionally delightful and I look forward to learning more about them in this hybrid world.
I do think that the major conflict and tension was solved early on in the story and everything that came after was just to prolong us in this world, which wasn’t a terrible thing. I’d recommend this book to those who would like to indulge in a sweet bout of comedic relief filled with fae and romance.

A romance for romantasy lovers.

Come along with Edwina Danforth, romance author extraordinaire, as she embarks on her first ever book tour, experiences the wonders and dangers of the fae isle, and makes an ill-advised bet with her rival author in a bid for a coveted publishing contract. A bet which relies heavily on skills in seduction which she unfortunately doesn’t possess, but she’s never been one to back down from a challenge.

Edwina is quirky and cozy, and she feels like someone you’d hear about as a friend of a friend or find admiring the crafts in a local bookshop. I think she’d also be friends with Emily Wilde, as they both share an interest in the fae, an appreciation for magic, and clinical calm when immersed in research.

I enjoyed the story’s cheeky self-awareness of romance reading culture. It ponders the question of what the fae would think of their portrayal in human novels, for example. As a prolific author, Edwina knows how to spot an unfortunate trope from a mile away, shows her displeasure by throwing down in a poetry battle, and scrambles for a notebook when writing inspiration strikes at random moments. It’s particularly moving to share in Edwina’s gratitude and awe at meeting fans and being able to share her stories with the world.

Also, special mention to Chapter 22. (Speechless. Stunning. We’re not taking questions at this time.)

Now, my one reservation - this book is very sex positive. Well, duh, we all read the synopsis. Adult encounters are thought about or discussed quite a lot, although the actual situations are more infrequent. I don’t share Edwina’s views on “sexual freedom” but the story has so many other charms that it was still overall a fun read.

(I'm also not a fan of dual POV, in that it spoils mysteries, or men’s ankle pants.)

Like many of the author’s other books, this story takes place in the land of Faerwyvae. However, it can be treated as entirely standalone. This is only my third foray into Faerwyvae and I didn’t feel I was missing anything at all. The end of the book also has suggestions for further reading, including other books with characters who appear in Rivalry.

**Thanks to NetGalley for the ARC**

This is the cutest fantasy rom-com! If you like low stakes, cozy, and cute fantasy with some spice, this is the book for you. The banter is so fun, the romance is swoon worthy, and the characters are absolutely loveable.

I have never read a low stakes fantasy book before, so I wasn't positive how I would like this book, but it is definitely one of the best books I have read in 2024. I would recommend it to anyone who likes romantasy!

Thank you to NetGalley and Victory Editing for providing me with a free ARC of this book in exchange for my review.

Tessonja Odette's "A Rivalry of Hearts" is an absolute gem that masterfully blends romance, fantasy, and rivalry into a captivating and unforgettable story. This novel delivers everything a romance lover could desire, and then some.

The premise is deliciously intriguing: Edwina Danforth, a romance author renowned for her passionate tales, finds herself entangled in a risky bet in the faelands after a night of fae wine. The terms of the bet are both thrilling and nerve-wracking—she must outdo her rival, the infuriatingly handsome William Haywood, by bedding the most lovers during a month-long dueling book tour to win a coveted publishing contract.

Edwina is a wonderfully relatable heroine. Despite her talent for writing steamy romance, her actual experience is limited, making her journey all the more engaging and endearing. The stakes are high for her; failure would mean slipping back into obscurity, a fate she is determined to avoid. Her fierce determination, coupled with her vulnerability, makes her a character you can't help but root for.

Enter William Haywood, her charming and annoyingly perfect rival. William is everything Edwina is not—experienced, confident, and with a track record that speaks volumes. His reasons for winning the bet are as compelling as Edwina’s, and his presence in the story adds layers of tension and excitement. The dynamic between Edwina and William is electric, filled with witty banter, sizzling chemistry, and moments of surprising tenderness.

Odette’s writing is enchanting, drawing readers into a world where magic and romance intertwine seamlessly. The faelands setting is richly described, providing a whimsical and enchanting backdrop for the story’s events. The plot is well-paced, with each chapter bringing new developments that keep the reader eagerly turning the pages.

One of the standout aspects of "A Rivalry of Hearts" is the development of Edwina and William’s relationship. What begins as a fierce rivalry gradually transforms into a deep and passionate connection. Their journey from competitors to lovers is beautifully portrayed, filled with moments of tension, humor, and heartfelt emotion.

This book is a perfect blend of fantasy and romance, with a unique plot that stands out in the genre. Tessonja Odette has crafted a story that is both fun and profound, offering readers a delightful escape into a world where love and rivalry go hand in hand. "A Rivalry of Hearts" is a must-read, earning every one of its five stars.

From the very first page, "A Rivalry of Hearts" by Tessonja Odette sweeps readers into a world brimming with magic, rivalry, and sizzling romance. The premise alone is enough to captivate any romance enthusiast: two rival writers, Edwina Danforth and William Haywood, locked in a high-stakes bet that promises passion, intrigue, and more than a few surprises.

Edwina, a romance author with a dazzling imagination but limited real-life experience, finds herself in a precarious position after a drunken bargain with the fae. The challenge? To bed the most lovers during a month-long dueling book tour, with a prestigious publishing contract hanging in the balance. The twist? Her most formidable rival and the man she’s competing against is the infuriatingly perfect William Haywood, whose charm and experience make him a formidable opponent.

Odette’s storytelling is nothing short of enchanting. The chemistry between Edwina and William is electric, their banter sharp and witty, and their interactions laced with a tantalizing blend of rivalry and undeniable attraction. As the story unfolds, readers are treated to a whirlwind of emotions, from the thrill of competition to the tender moments of vulnerability and growing affection between the protagonists.

The faelands backdrop adds a delightful layer of fantasy to the narrative, enriching the plot with magical elements and whimsical settings. Odette masterfully balances the fantastical with the romantic, creating a seamless blend that keeps readers hooked from start to finish.

What truly sets this novel apart is its characters. Edwina is a relatable and endearing heroine, whose journey from insecurity to confidence is both inspiring and heartwarming. William, on the other hand, is the perfect romantic lead—charming, complex, and ultimately, deeply caring. Their development throughout the story is beautifully paced and deeply satisfying.

"A Rivalry of Hearts" is a delightful read that promises to entertain and enchant. Tessonja Odette has crafted a tale that is not only about the fiery competition between two writers but also about the unexpected ways love can bloom amidst rivalry. This book is a must-read for anyone who enjoys a good romance with a dash of magic and a lot of heart. Five stars, without a doubt!

A Rivalry of Hearts was a thoroughly enjoyable fantasy. romance. William, a Fae romantic poet and Edwina, a human romance writer, find themselves on a book tour together through the fairy-world and competing for the same long term publishing contract. Whoever sells the most books gets the deal! It's enemies at first site, until, of course, it isn't, and the journey in between is just delightful!

Full of glorious banter and steam, these rivals can't stay away from each other for very long, and as they find their way to being vulnerable with each other, the tension only increases! This was 100% fun from beginning to end.